Oakview students miss Mr. B
We were all deeply saddened to learn of the passing of our beloved Mr. B, Hugh Banninga, following complications from surgery a few days ago. Mr. B has volunteered at Oakview for 9 years. He began his career with us in Mrs. Zink’s classroom when his grandchildren attended Oakview, and then devoted the past several years to Mrs. K’s and Mrs. Lehner’s classrooms. This year he also began volunteering in Mrs. Leasher’s room.
Our school counselor, Nicole Toft, has been with us this afternoon. She and Mrs. Beal visited the classrooms where he spent the most time to talk to students and let them share their feelings. We’ve learned that students would frequently ask if he had a pen – and he always did. As a staff we are sharing stories and memories. I don’t think a day went by when Mr. B didn’t lean over my desk and ask, “So, Lisa, got anymore pictures for me today?”
Two years ago I interviewed Mr. B for an article I wrote for Locale magazine showcasing our grandparent volunteers. He told me that students would frequently stop by his home during the summer and ask him to “come out and play.” I asked him what he loved best about coming to our school every day. In his words, it’s “helping the kids, all of the hugs, and watching them experience an ‘aha’ moment in math.”
Our hearts and our lives are fuller for having known this wonderful gentleman. We miss you deeply already, Mr. B.
From a Facebook post
Last November Hugh Banninga- St. Johns Lions Club president, presented a flag to Oakview Elementary. He is shown here with Kaitlin Doerr, 5th grade student; Kaylin Shaffer, 5th grade student with Mr. John Ferden, 5th grade teacher